Bougainvillea Trees

Bougainvillea (Bougainvillea spp.) is a tropical plant that evidently assumes a climbing or trailing shape, and it does properly when allowed to climb up and over a trellis or fence. With right care, but, it is able to additionally be taught to take on the shape of a small tree.

Bougainvillea is a shrubby vine native to South the united states. It's hardy in U.S. department of Agriculture plant hardiness zones nine to eleven, so inside the united states, it may best be grown in the ground inside the warmer climates of the South and West. it may grow in a box in cooler climates in case you convey it inside whilst temperatures fall.

The plant life have woody stems with inch-lengthy spines, and they produce small white vegetation surrounded with the aid of massive, colourful bracts -- the a part of the bloom that gives the plant its decorative value.

even though bougainvillea is generally concept of as a vine, its natural boom habit is that of a rambling shrub. it's going to climb if given the opportunity, however will stay shrubby or grow alongside the ground if left by myself.

Bougainvillea is a full of life grower, specifically whilst planted within the floor, and everyday pruning is important to hold it trained in tree shape. Pruning also allows the plant bloom more prolifically, due to the fact blooming takes place on new growth; prune branches to 18 or 20 inches in period to inspire blooms. Sterilize your pruning equipment with a family cleaner before use.

The college of Florida's Lee County Extension service notes that there are a few uncommon examples of bougainvillea growing obviously in tree form in Florida and in different components of the South. it is doubtful, however, which species those specimens belong to; they will be the species generally referred to as tree bougainvillea (Bougainvillea arborea) or a diffusion of Bougainvillea glabra.

these tree-like species have short trunks, and they usually lack spines. They grow fine in dry regions with full sun exposure.

To educate bougainvillea into tree shape, plant a young vine next to a 3-foot-excessive stake, getting it as near the stake as feasible. Wrap the stem of the vine across the stake, preserving it gently in region with a gentle plant tie, and prune away any aspect branches. as the plant grows, put off any facet shoots or shoots above the stake that don't agree to the desired form. The skilled stem will eventually form a woody trunk, and the branches above the trunk will likely take on a weeping shape.